Yes, the canary in the coal mines is a good example indeed! It's nice to hear that you are able to go to various tastings in your area. And I totally get it...you don't have to be much of a drinker to enjoy the tastings. If you enjoy the tastings and learning about the processes involved, that's all you need!
I love the way you describe the man and his family who bought the estate and made such a success of it. Especially in such a short time! It really sounds like a nice family.
I can imagine that such a venue would be a great hit and very popular as a platform for weddings as you mention.
I have to say, I found that video very interesting about the fences and how they were used on the battlefields for hiding, for cover, and even for forming obstacles to inflict more casualties on enemy lines.
I found this to be a very interesting and informative post!